The award-winning ‘Migos’ member Takeoff was tragically shot down Tuesday in a short-lasted shooting spree at a Texas party. The Houston Police Department confirmed the identity of the 28-year-old victim, who was an internationally-renowned artist known for his unique rap style and cheerful attitude.
The shooting occurred outside a business venue on 810 Billiards & Bowling Houston in the early hour of around 02:30 a.m Tuesday and lasted only a few minutes. It has been reported that roughly 40 to 50 people were present at the time an argument took place and resulted in gunfire shortly afterwards. One man was fatally shot in the head or neck and was declared dead at the scene by the police and first responders; this later turned out to be the Migos rapper known by his stage-name ‘Takeoff’, who was playing dice with his bandmate Quavo, who was unharmed. Two other people received non-life-threatening injuries during the tragic incident, and were taken to the hospital in private vehicles.
The details of the incident were revealed shortly after the fact by Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner in a press conference, along with some testimony by officers and employees present at the scene. The police received an emergency call at 02:34 in the morning and arrived shortly after. According to the statement, most people who witnessed the event did not stay put long enough for the authorities to get a more detailed account. Takeoff’s death is so far believed to be an unfortunate accident. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner met with Takeoff’s mother to offer his condolences, and many fellow musicians and other celebrities expressed their shock and horror at the tremendous loss.
The African-American rapper was born Kirshnik Khari Ball in Lawrenceville, Georgia, in 1994, and was raised along with his uncle Quavo – only three years his senior. After an early beginning in rap music, the two debuted alongside Offset – another relative – in 2008. The trio gained worldwide fame with their 2013 breakthrough single Versace and have been prominent names in North American music industry ever since.
Earlier this year, however, the team was rumored to have broken up after a public feud online and did not attend Toronto’s Rolling Loud Festival in September. The band is now unlikely to survive the tragic departure of its youngest member and keynote singer.
Here are some reactions from celebrities:
Anthony Tilghman, is an 3x Award-winning Photojournalist, Education advocate, Mentor, and Published Author with years of experience in media, photography, marketing and branding. He is the Winner of the 2020, 2021 & 2023 Dateline award for Excellence in Local Journalism.